6-Day Turkey Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bursa traveling east to Kocaeli and Istanbul
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Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in Turkey as you embark on an unforgettable 6-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Bursa, Osmangazi, Kocaeli, Bolu, Istanbul, Fatih, and Beyoğlu.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Turkey takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Bursa, 2 nights in Kocaeli, and 1 night in Istanbul. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Turkey. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Bursa, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Turkey on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Turkey. Galata Tower and Spice Bazaar are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Grand Bazaar, learn more about the unique Hagia Sophia, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Topkapı Palace.
As you hit the open road and drive through Bursa, Osmangazi, Kocaeli, Bolu, Istanbul, Fatih, and Beyoğlu, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Turkey. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Turkey.
Throughout your road trip in Turkey, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Turkey.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Turkey fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Turkey today!
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Day 1
- Bursa - Arrival day
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- Heykel
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Your road trip adventure in Turkey begins as soon as you reach Bursa and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Bursa for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
Bursa is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Heykel, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Bursa. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Turkey. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Bursa, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Kitap Evi Otel, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Tabipler Lokali is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Abidin Usta. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bursa tonight.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at My Pub, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Radyo Pub Özlüce; Bira Bahçesi provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Cemil offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Turkey!
Day 2
- Bursa
- Kocaeli
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Drive 147 km, 2 hours 10 min
- Grand Mosque of Bursa
- Koza Han
- Han Brass
- Karagoz Museum
- İnkaya Historical Plane Tree
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Turkey. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Bursa and Osmangazi. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Kocaeli, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.
Start your adventure at Bursa Grand Mosque. This captivating mosque is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Koza Han located in Bursa for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Han Brass. After the sightseeing destination, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Karagoz Museum. Visitors usually appreciate the respected features of this museum. Next up is İnkaya Historical Plane Tree, a highly recommended historical landmark.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Kocaeli. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Kocaeli's best restaurants.
Savor the flavors at Garniture Cafe Restaurant Patisserie, a top pick for dinner tonight.
Say good night to Kocaeli and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Turkey!
Day 3
- Kocaeli
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Drive 349 km, 4 hours 23 min
- Orta Hamam
- Beyazıt Cami
- Yukarı Taşhan
- Golcuk Nature Park
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On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Kocaeli, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and history-rich sites. Start at the locally appreciated Orta Hamam, a romantic spa in Kocaeli. Next, go to Beyazıt Cami.
Golcuk Nature Park is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Kocaeli.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Kocaeli. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Say good night to Kocaeli and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Turkey!
Day 4
- Kocaeli
- Istanbul
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Drive 106 km, 2 hours 28 min
- Sultan Ahmed Mosque
- Gülhane Park
- Spice Bazaar
- Süleymaniye Mosque
- Grand Bazaar
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Turkey. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Istanbul and Fatih. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Istanbul. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Kocaeli is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots! Start at Sultan Ahmed Mosque, an extraordinary mosque that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Gülhane Park, enchanting visitors with its instagrammable appeal. Continue your exploration at Spice Bazaar. This market is one of the city’s most globally renowned spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Kocaeli at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Süleymaniye Mosque. After exploring the mosque, head to the wondrous Grand Bazaar.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Istanbul. Istanbul offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Istanbul. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Have a memorable dining experience in Istanbul by booking a table at Calipso Fish, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional seafood menu. For a different culinary experience in Istanbul, Sankai by Nagaya shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious japanese contemporary cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Arkestra is known as a top local spot for its delicious fusion cuisine in Istanbul. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Malt Bar Gayrettepe, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Brusq Bar & Hookah Lounge offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Rounder's Irish Pub. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Turkey.
Day 5
- Istanbul
- Bursa
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Drive 164 km, 2 hours 43 min
- Hagia Sophia
- Topkapı Palace
- Galata Tower
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Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Turkey. Today you will explore Istanbul and Beyoğlu, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Bursa. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Istanbul, including a mosque, a palace, and an observation deck. Start your day with a visit to Hagia Sophia. This world-famous mosque is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Topkapı Palace, which may be one of the most historic places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Istanbul on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Galata Tower, a wondrous observation deck in the city.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Bursa, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bursa. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Yesil Izgara Pideli Kofte, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? TANDIR'AZ BURSA offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Labelle Bar. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bursa.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Varuna Memphis Pub Bursa. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Kule Pub offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two.
Head back to your accommodation in Bursa and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Turkey!
Day 6
- Bursa - Departure day
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- Mehmet Abdal Tomb
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Day 6 of your road trip in Turkey is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bursa before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Mehmet Abdal Tomb. This up-and-coming monument is a popular place to see in the city.
As your final day in Turkey unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Bursa's best shopping area, Zafer Plaza. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Turkey.
Before you conclude your road trip in Turkey, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bursa.
Dine in style at Fayton Kafe, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Titiz Izgara boasts a menu that's sure to impress.
You’ll then say farewell to Bursa. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Turkey!
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